Methods for damping loads acting in overload situations to protect against damage

Abstract

Method for damping loads acting on a loading unit (100) for transporting transport elements (103) in an overload case to protect against damage, wherein measured values ​​(62) about the current state of the loading unit (100) are recorded by a sensor device (61) and wherein at least one damping device (2) is controlled by the measured values ​​(62), characterized by that a shearing device (42) is provided on the loading unit (100) which shears off when the load acting on the loading unit (100) exceeds a predetermined level (66), and that a control device (48) detects an overload case (63) from the recorded measured values ​​(62) when a shear sensor (67) detects shearing of the shear device (42), and that the damping of the damping device (2) is set to a predetermined high value at least immediately after the detection of the overload case (63), and the damping set to a high value is maintained for a predetermined time period (67) after the detection of an overload case (63), and the damping is reduced to a lower damping (71) after the predetermined time period (67) in order to initially increase the load on transport elements (103) transported on the loading unit (100) up to a predetermined limit load (64) and then reduce it after the predetermined time period (67).

Description

[0001] The present invention relates to a method for dampening loads acting in particular on a loading unit for transporting transport elements in an overload case in order to protect the transported transport elements from damage.

[0002] Various methods for dampening stresses in overload situations, such as explosions beneath armored vehicles, have become known in order to protect the transported goods and, in particular, people and sensitive equipment. Typically, mechanical systems are used for protection, in which energy is absorbed through deformation or tearing in order to absorb energy in an overload situation and thus protect the occupants.

[0003] However, a disadvantage of this is that it is not possible to control the damping or energy absorption in an overload situation with such systems.

[0004] WO 2011 / 141 164 A1 discloses a control method for an energy absorber in a steering column, in which a sensor determines the relative velocity of the moving parts of the energy absorber. The energy absorber is then controlled to maintain a constant and minimal deceleration, so that at the end of the travel path of the moving parts, the relative velocity is approximately zero. This publication also mentions the potential applications of such an energy absorber in seat belt systems, mine protection seats, bumpers, machine tools, aircraft arresting gear on aircraft carriers, helicopter damping systems, and shoe cushioning systems.

[0005] In all applications, the maximum travel distance is optimally utilized to minimize stress, for example, in a car crash, so that the driver is exposed to the lowest possible loads when impacting the steering column. Such a system works well for controlling the energy absorber on steering columns or in other applications where the occurring speeds and thus loads are known, and the available travel distance can therefore be correlated with the existing relative speed. DE 10 2012 012 535 A1 discloses a damper and a method for operating a damper intended for use on a mine protection seat. This document addresses the problem of adaptively controlling a damper in real time to continuously and adaptively dampen small and large impacts depending on the current load.

[0006] DE 10 2009 000 112 A1 discloses a deformation element for energy absorption in a vehicle collision and a method for controlling the deformation behavior of deformation elements in a vehicle, wherein different deformation elements are set to different stiffness based on crash information.

[0007] US patent 2013 / 0214570A1 discloses a mine protection seat in which a shear bolt is provided to dampen only when a limit load is exceeded.

[0008] US patent 2011 / 0035118A1 describes a vehicle seat that adaptively dampens based on sensor data, from which an impact velocity is derived. The damper is then controlled by this impact velocity. In some vehicles, the speedometer data can be used for this purpose. US patent 2008 / 0015753A1 additionally discloses a comfort function for the damping. This involves two dampers: a first damper for normal vibrations and a second damper for extreme shock events.

[0009] US patent 5 558 301 A describes a seat for an aircraft such as a helicopter, in which a passive damper cushions the impact in the event of a crash.

[0010] When used in applications such as mine protection seats, where the force of an explosion is unknown in an overload situation, such as a mine detonation under an armored vehicle, this type of control achieves the desired results if the explosion is weak. The resulting forces can be dampened and transmitted to the body of a person sitting in the mine protection seat. The load can be significantly reduced. The deceleration or relative speed is adjusted to maintain a consistently low load throughout the travel distance.

[0011] This method requires that the initial and boundary conditions are known. If external influences of unknown strength and duration are present, the application can lead to unexpected results, resulting in either insufficient or excessive damping.

[0012] It is therefore the object of the present invention to provide a method and an assembly for damping, which makes better control possible, especially in overload cases, where not all the data required for optimal control are available when the overload case occurs.

[0013] This problem is solved by a steaming method having the features of claim 1 and by using an assembly having the features of claim 13 to carry out the method according to the invention. Preferred embodiments of the invention are specified in the dependent claims. Further advantages and features will become apparent from the general description and from the description of the exemplary embodiments.

[0014] An inventive method for dampening loads acting, in particular on a loading unit for transporting transport elements, in an overload situation to protect against health hazards is carried out using a sensor device. The sensor device acquires measured values ​​of the current state of the loading unit, and at least one damping device is controlled by these measured values. A shearing device is provided on the loading unit, which shears when the load acting on the loading unit exceeds a predetermined level. A control device detects an overload situation from the acquired measured values ​​when a shear sensor detects shearing of the shearing device. The damping of the damping device is then set to a predetermined high value before or at least immediately after the detection of an overload situation.The damping, initially set to a high value, is maintained for a predetermined period after an overload is detected. After this period, the damping is reduced to a lower value to first increase the load on the transported components on the loading unit up to a predetermined limit and then reduce it. This reduction is primarily intended to prevent the limit from being exceeded.

[0015] The method according to the invention has many advantages. A significant advantage is that, immediately after the overload situation is detected, the damping is set to a particularly high value, and according to the invention, a predetermined high value. It is also possible for the predetermined high value to be set beforehand. For example, the high value could correspond to a basic setting that must be actively reduced.

[0016] This high value is initially maintained after the overload situation is detected. This means that the spine of a user sitting on the load unit (e.g., a seat) is initially pre-stressed by the shock of a mine explosion, as the damping device is set to a high, and e.g., maximum, value. Relative movement at the damping device is essentially suppressed. This allows for better regulation of the spinal load, as the previously unstressed spine can first be pre-stressed. The load is initially increased up to a predetermined limit. Subsequently, the load is maintained at approximately this limit. Afterward, the damping of the device is reduced, allowing relative movement of the load unit or seat relative to a frame or the body of a transport vehicle.This ensures that the load on the spine of a user sitting on the loading unit is not increased beyond the specified limit load, but is kept constant or at least approximately constant.

[0017] This method significantly reduces the risk of injury to the user. In contrast, conventional mechanical systems immediately absorb energy until they reach a hard stop. At that point, excessively high loads can be suddenly transferred to the user's spine. The method according to the invention works in reverse: initially, no energy is absorbed, and the user's spine is pre-stressed as a transport element. Subsequently, energy absorption occurs at the damping device because the damping is reduced from its initially high value.

[0018] Furthermore, the inventive method optimally utilizes the available travel range. The full travel range remains available even after the preloading of the mechanical components involved. These mechanical components include, for example, the mechanically deformable suspension of the seating unit. Such seating units are typically equipped with padding on the seat surface and / or a sprung seat to enhance comfort during normal operation. The spine of a person sitting on the seat can also be considered part of this system. The control device only intervenes once the mechanical components involved are preloaded.

[0019] In all configurations, the loading unit is designed primarily as a seating unit and serves mainly for transporting people. However, it is also possible to transport loads, animals, sensitive equipment, or other objects. In a seating configuration, the receiving unit of the loading unit corresponds to the seat surface, and the support structure is used to attach the seating unit to the means of transport. Preferably, the loading unit is attached as high as possible on the means of transport. The loading unit can be attached to the roof or an upper area of ​​the side wall of the means of transport.

[0020] Damage to a transport device within the meaning of this application is understood to be a condition in which the transport device is altered, at least temporarily, in a manner deemed detrimental or undesirable. This can be temporary damage. Permanent or even irreparable damage is also possible.

[0021] When people are involved in transport, damage is considered an impairment of their health. Permanent damage, in the case of people, means at least a long-term and significant impairment of their well-being. Damage to an object or device can be temporary, but is generally more persistent and can also result in a permanent defect, such as a broken component.

[0022] Preferably, the control unit periodically derives characteristic parameters for the load on the loading unit or the seating system from the measured values. It is also possible, and preferably preferred, for the control unit to periodically derive characteristic parameters for the load on a transport organ, and in particular on the spine of a user, from the measured values. Specifically, the characteristic parameters are determined from the measured values ​​that at least approximately represent the acceleration of the loading unit. For example, displacement sensors can be provided that record the respective position at short intervals and derive the acceleration from the known time interval between two measurements. It is also possible for displacement and / or force and / or acceleration sensors to be considered individually or in combination.

[0023] According to the invention, at least one shearing device is provided on the loading unit, which shears off when the load acting on the loading unit exceeds a predetermined level. Such a shearing device has the advantage that the stroke provided by the damping device is fully maintained until an overload occurs. This ensures that the full stroke is available in the event of an overload, allowing even very large loads to be dampened and their energy absorbed.

[0024] According to the invention, the control unit detects an overload situation when a shear sensor detects shearing of the shearing device. Such a design is very easy to implement, since the shearing of a shearing device, such as a shear bolt, can serve as the starting point for the method. For example, the sensor device only periodically records measured values ​​once the shear sensor has detected shearing of the shearing device. This can be achieved, for example, by a shear bolt providing a continuous electrically conductive connection, the interruption of which initiates the start signal for the periodic acquisition of measured values.

[0025] It is preferred that the control unit detects an overload case when a characteristic parameter exceeds a predetermined level. Such a design functions both with and without a shearing device. In this design, the control unit can continuously acquire measured values ​​from the sensor device and determine the overload case based on the magnitude of the derived characteristic parameters. If the measured or determined acceleration of the seating system exceeds a certain level, an overload case is detected.

[0026] Preferably, the damping, which is set to a high value before or immediately after the detection of an overload case, is maintained accordingly for a predetermined period of time after the detection of the overload case.

[0027] In advantageous further developments, the damping is reduced to a lower level and / or zero after a predetermined period and then increased again depending on the characteristic parameter. This procedure enables flexible and optimal control of the load on a person sitting on the seat or on a transport device on a load unit. In the event of an overload, the damping is initially set so high that a previously unloaded spine of the user is prestressed. Only then, after a predetermined period, is the damping reduced, allowing relative movement at the damping device. Based on the continuously acquired measurements, the damping of the damping device is then increased and / or decreased again depending on the characteristic parameter.This ensures that, for a given stroke of the damping device, it is as safe as possible to avoid exposing the transport device or the user to impermissible forces and loads.

[0028] In all embodiments, it is preferred that the damping device is initially damped to the maximum extent after detection of an overload case, in order to maintain the maximum stroke as far as possible.

[0029] It is possible and preferred that the damping device, after detection of an overload or after the elapsed time period, is controlled in a time-dependent manner based on the currently derived characteristic value. This allows for an optimal response to an overload.

[0030] It is possible and preferred that the damping of the damping device is reduced when the characteristic value reaches or exceeds a predetermined permissible limit load for transport elements, persons or equipment.

[0031] In specific configurations, the permissible load limit is preferably specified for a standard person. It is possible and preferred that the permissible load limit be individually set or determined for transport equipment or users.

[0032] In particular, it is also possible to consider sensor readings from a sensor unit attached to a transport device or a person. Multiple sensor units can also be considered to increase the reliability of the measured values ​​and to take more parameters into account.

[0033] In all embodiments, the loading unit or seating arrangement is preferably coupled with at least one sensor to determine, for example, the weight of a transported load or person and / or the acceleration of the seating arrangement. It is also possible to use planar sensor elements that measure multiple values ​​distributed across the surface of the loading unit or seating arrangement. In all cases, a damping device with a magnetorheological damping valve is preferably used, wherein the damping strength of the magnetorheological damping valve is controlled by the strength of a magnetic field generated at the damping valve.

[0034] According to the invention, an assembly comprising a loading unit, a damping device, a control device, and at least one sensor device is used to carry out a method according to the invention.

[0035] The assembly is equipped with a loading unit for transporting transport components and a damping device for damping loads acting on the loading unit in the event of an overload, thus protecting the transported components from damage. Furthermore, a control unit and at least one sensor device for acquiring measured values ​​about the current state of the loading unit are provided. The control unit controls at least one damping device using the measured values ​​from the sensor device.The control unit is designed and configured to detect an overload case from the recorded measured values ​​and to set the damping of the damping device to a high value at least immediately after the detection of the overload case and only reduce it later in order to first increase the load on a transport element arranged on the loading unit up to a predetermined limit load and then, in particular, to reduce it in a precisely adjusted manner.

[0036] The use of the assembly also has many advantages, as it allows for individual control of the damping device in the event of an overload.

[0037] Preferably, at least one sensor unit that can be attached to a person is provided and that can be connected to the control unit either wired or wirelessly. Preferably, at least one sensor is provided and connected to the loading unit to determine the weight of a transported item and / or the acceleration of the loading unit and / or the force acting upon it.

[0038] The damping device preferably has at least one magnetorheological damping valve, the damping of which is controlled by the strength of a magnetic field acting on the damping valve.

[0039] In all cases, a shearing device can be provided on the loading unit, which can be sheared off if the load acting on the loading unit exceeds a predetermined level.

[0040] The control method can be programmable in all cases. The method can be adapted to different frames or seat frames. The control can be optimized depending on the threat scenario and / or hazard potential. Variable adaptation to the installation situation is also possible, e.g., if the possible stroke is changed or if components are subsequently modified or added.

[0041] In all embodiments, the damping is preferably controlled via the current flow of an electrical coil used to generate a magnetic field. Initially, a very high force is generated, pre-tensioning the spine of the person acting as the transport organ and any seat cushions, springs, and the like. This achieves the shortest possible travel distance until the entire system is pre-tensioned and the spine reaches a specific, predetermined force. A rapid reduction of force then occurs, particularly just before reaching the maximum permissible spinal force. This rapid force reduction is preferably achieved by switching off the applied current. This rapid force reduction prevents force or load overshoot. The load or spinal force is then preferably maintained until the first disturbance of the overload event has ceased.This reliably prevents the system from breaking through in most possible cases.

[0042] In all configurations, it is possible to provide an additional comfort function in which a portion of the stroke or travel of the damping device is used for suspension and damping of minor impacts to enhance comfort. This can potentially be centrally controlled, allowing a variable proportion of the total travel to be allocated to the comfort function depending on the threat level. This means that in situations with a high risk potential, the entire travel is available for overload situations, while in safe situations, a larger proportion of the travel is available for comfort damping.

[0043] It is also possible that, when designed as a seating device, seat height adjustment is provided. This can offer greater safety, for example, to smaller or lighter people, as more travel distance is available.

[0044] In all configurations, when people are the transporters, the force applied is preferably regulated according to the measured or estimated spinal force. The force acting on the spine should not exceed 4000 N.

[0045] In further developments, two successive and interconnected disturbance events of an overload situation are dampened. For example, the first disturbance event of an explosion is the direct effect, namely when the armored vehicle is initially thrown into the air by the explosion. The effects are dampened accordingly. Subsequently, the vehicle impacts the ground again. This is the second disturbance event of the overload situation and is also dampened. Therefore, an automatic return of the damping device to its initial position is preferably provided. Further advantages and features of the present invention will become apparent from the description of the exemplary embodiments, which are explained below with reference to the accompanying figures.

[0046] The figures show: Fig. 1 a schematic perspective view of an assembly for carrying out the method according to the invention; Fig. 2 a front view of the assembly Fig. 1; Fig. 3 a side view in section of the assembly according to Fig. 1 in damping state; Fig. 4 a front view of the assembly Fig. 1 on average at rest; Fig. 5 a vehicle with assemblies according to the invention for protecting the occupants in the event of explosions; Fig. 6 a temporal sequence of a damping force of the assembly according to Fig. 1 in the event of an overload; and Fig. 7 a schematic flowchart of the control of the assembly in the overload case according to Fig. 6.

[0047] In Fig. Figure 1 shows a schematic perspective view of an assembly 1 according to the invention. The assembly comprises a damper cylinder 5 with a fastening device 3 at one end and a holding device 4 at the other end. The holding device 4 and the fastening device 3 each have two laterally projecting arms, on each of which a preload spring 43 of a preload device 38 is arranged to return the assembly 1 to its rest state 40 after an overload event 63, which is also maintained in Fig. 1 is shown.

[0048] Assembly 1 serves to absorb energy or dampen relative movements between the fastening device 3 and the holding device 4. The holding device 4 is connected to the piston assembly 6 of the damping device 2, while the fastening device 3 is rigidly connected to the damping cylinder 5. At the upper end, a cover 39 is visible, which seals and limits the second chamber of the damping chamber 9, concealed inside. Assembly 1 is used in particular on a loading unit 100 between a receiving unit 101 and a support device 102 (see figure). Fig. 5).

[0049] Fig. Figure 2 shows assembly 1 in a front view. A central axis of symmetry 30 extends through the damper cylinder 5, through which the section to Fig. 3 proceeds.

[0050] Fig. 3 shows the cut after Fig. 2 in a resting state 40. Additionally, a seating unit 21 is schematically shown as a loading unit 100. The loading unit 100 has a receiving unit 101 or a seating surface 21a on which a transport entity 103, such as a person 105, such as a soldier in a troop transport vehicle, can sit.

[0051] Inside the damper cylinder 5, the damper piston 7 and the associated piston rod 8 of the piston assembly 6 are visible in cross-section. The damper piston 7 divides the damper chamber 9 inside the damper cylinder 5 into a first chamber 10 and a second chamber 11. The second chamber 11 is bounded externally by the end cap 39 and sealed airtight there.

[0052] In the resting state, the first chamber 10 is at least partially and, in particular, completely filled with damping fluid 12. Upon the occurrence of an overload condition 63, the piston rod 8 is pulled out of the damper cylinder 5, so that the damping fluid 12 present in the first chamber 10 passes through the damping channel 14 in the damper piston 7 and into the second chamber 11. The second chamber 11 may already be partially filled with damping fluid 12 in the resting state. However, it is also possible that the second chamber 11 is only slightly or not at all filled with damping fluid 12 in the resting state, but only with air or another compressible gas or medium.

[0053] It is clearly evident that the piston rod 8 has a very large diameter, leaving only a relatively narrow annular gap around the piston rod for the first chamber 10. As a result, only a relatively small volume of damping fluid 12 is displaced from the first chamber 10 when the damper piston 7 extends. Therefore, the flow velocities of the damping fluid 12 in the damping channel 14 are low even in overload situations 63 caused by explosions, so that the length of the damper piston 7 is sufficient for the magnetic field of the electric coil, acting as a field-generating device 16, to influence the flow as desired.

[0054] During the transfer of the flow fluid 12 from the first chamber 10 to the second chamber 11, the damping fluid 12 is redirected inwards by the radial flow openings 44, which extend radially obliquely from the outside towards the inside. This means that the flow channel, or damping channel 14, is located radially further inwards than the first chamber 10. As a result, the interior of the damper piston 7 can be used effectively to generate the necessary magnetic field and for the damping channel 14.

[0055] The piston rod 8 is considerably thicker than necessary for stability. Therefore, a cavity 22, designed here as a blind hole, is provided in the piston rod 8. The blind hole 22 extends from the end 26 opposite the piston into the piston rod 8. The cavity 22 can extend to just before the damper piston 7, so that its length extends over three-quarters or more of the length of the piston rod 8 up to the damper piston 7. The cavity 22 can be used accordingly. Here, the control device 48 and an energy storage device 47 are arranged inside the cavity 22. The control device 48 is connected to the electrical coil 16 to control it. Furthermore, the control device 48 is connected to a sensor device 61 to detect and process the loads on the load unit 100, which is designed as a seat 21.

[0056] The energy storage device 47 ensures that even in the event of a power failure on board the means of transport, assembly 1 always has sufficient energy available to control the damping device 2. The energy storage device can be a capacitor or a battery.

[0057] The damper piston 7 not only separates the first chamber 10 from the second chamber 11, but also forms a flow valve 13, which can be controlled by the control device 48.

[0058] In Fig. Figure 4 shows another cross-section through assembly 1, also showing the pre-tensioning device 38 as a return mechanism 32 to 43 in section. For clarity, the energy storage device 47 and the control device 48 in the cavity 22 are not shown here. The first chamber 10 forms an annular space 28 around the piston rod 8. The radial extent of the annular space 28 is less than the wall thickness of the hollow piston rod 8.

[0059] Fig. Figure 5 shows a schematic representation of a transport vehicle 50, such as a troop carrier, on which assemblies 1 according to the invention are provided to protect the occupants in the event of explosions. The transport vehicle 50 has a body 51 to which mine protection seats 60 are attached as assemblies 1. The vehicle 50 is movable via wheels with tires 52. In an overload situation 63, such as an explosion, the vehicle 50 is thrown into the air, whereby a damped movement of the loading unit 100 of the assemblies 1, here designed as a seat assembly 21, occurs in order to protect the persons sitting on it from permanent injury.

[0060] Fig. Figure 6 shows the time course 70 of the relative set current strength of the damping device 2 in an overload case 63. Such an overload case occurs, for example, when an armored troop transport drives over a landmine and it explodes.

[0061] Overload case 63 is detected, for example, when the shear bolt of the shearing device 42 shears off because the load acting on it exceeds the shear force. This breaks the electrically conductive contact through the shearing device 42, which is detected by the control unit 48. A corresponding control sequence is then activated. This point in time is designated t0.

[0062] Alternatively or additionally, another overload detection routine can also run in the control unit 48. The control unit 48 can also query and evaluate the current measured values ​​of the sensor device 61 and the sensor unit 68, as well as of other sensors, at specific time intervals in order to periodically derive a characteristic value 65 from a single measured value from one sensor, several measured values ​​from one sensor, or several measured values ​​from different sensors. The characteristic value 65 can be determined, for example, every 10 ms or at other suitable time intervals. After detection of an overload event 63, a shorter time interval is preferably selected.

[0063] At time t0, the electrical coil 16 is directly subjected to a high electric current. In particular, the electrical coil 16 is directly subjected to the maximum possible current in order to block the damping device 2 as directly as possible. The magnetic field generated by the electrical coil 16 links the magnetorheological particles in the magnetorheological damping fluid 12 within the damping channel 14. In order to force the damping fluid 12 through the damping channel 14, the applied force must be large enough to (reversibly) shear off the linked magnetorheological particles. The maximum force is therefore set so that it is generally sufficient, even in the case of overload, to prevent relative movement of the holding device 4 relative to the fastening device 3. The current remains at 100% for a preset time period 67. The length of the preset time period 67 can be preset, but can also be, for example,The force can be varied based on the weight of the person 105 sitting on the seat 21. It is also possible to record and take into account the weight of a device 104 as a transport element 103. The force acting on a measured acceleration can then be determined. In many cases, a permissible maximum force must not be exceeded. The force is calculated as the product of acceleration and mass.

[0064] The specified time interval 67 is preferably selected based on measurements, calculations, and empirical data such that the permissible back or spinal load of a typical person is not exceeded in the event of an overload 63 within this time interval 67. The previously unloaded spine of a person 105 sitting on the seat 21 is then pre-tensioned in the event of an overload 63. Likewise, any springs or cushions of the seat 21 and also mechanical components with spring action are pre-tensioned. If objects 104 are being transported, this is taken into account accordingly so that sensitive equipment can be transported safely.

[0065] After a time interval of 67, the person's load at time t1 may have reached the maximum intended load limit 81. Simultaneously, the limit load 64, which should not be exceeded, is also reached. To achieve optimal control, the current of the electrical coil 16 is then drastically reduced to a lower value 72. In particular, the current of the electrical coil 16 is abruptly reduced to zero. This prevents an overshoot of the load curve 80.

[0066] The initially steeply rising load curve 80 reaches a plateau 82. The damping device 2 now allows relative movement of the seat assembly 21 to the body 51 of the vehicle 50. At time t2, the current is initially increased to the value 78, and from then on, the current of the electrical coil 16 ramps up. The damping increases accordingly, so that the speed of movement of the damper piston 7 is reduced, and the load remains at the high plateau 82. This method ensures that the load is always kept as high as permissible. This guarantees that the greatest possible reserves are always available to dampen an overload without causing permanent damage to the person sitting in the mine protection seat. If a damper reaches its limit, the load increases abruptly and can rise further beyond permissible limits. The invention significantly reduces the risk of injury.At time t3, the overload situation ends and the power is switched off again.

[0067] During the time interval starting at time t1, the damping is controlled in a regulated manner. For this purpose, the measured values ​​of sensors 61 and 68 are periodically queried. A characteristic value 65 is periodically derived from the measurement results and used for further control. The current load is determined from characteristic value 65, unless the characteristic value directly reflects the current load. Based on the current load, the current is controlled so that the load remains as close as possible to the limit load 64 and does not exceed it.

[0068] If it is detected that the maximum load of overload case 63 has been exceeded, the damping can also be adjusted to be softer in order to increase comfort.

[0069] Also shown is in Fig. Figure 6 shows a dashed line 83, which represents a different load profile. Line 83 also begins at time t0 with the detection of an overload event 63. The current is increased to 100% and reduced to zero at time t1. At time t2, the current is increased to the value 78 and then ramped up (73) until time t2a. Afterward, the load decreases, allowing the damping to be adjusted more gently and the current to be reduced.

[0070] In one variant, the parameter 65 is periodically determined from time t0 onwards, also during the specified time period 67. Control is then carried out at all times based on the determined parameter 65, until, for example, an overload limit 69 is undershot again.

[0071] If no shearing device 42 is present, the overload limit 69 can also be used as the limit for detecting an overload event 63. For loads below the overload limit 69, the damping device can perform a comfort function and dampen minor shocks. A certain portion of the stroke can be reserved for overload events. The reserved portion can depend on the current hazard situation.

[0072] Fig.Figure 7 shows a highly schematic representation of a control sequence in a specific configuration. The procedure begins at start 84. Here, for example, the shearing device 42 is queried in an endless loop to detect an explosion. If an explosion or similar fault is detected in step 85, the endless loop is exited at branch 94 and the control unit 48 is initialized. This occurs in step 86. There, the control algorithm 87 is also instructed to apply maximum damping 66 or 71 to the damping device for a predetermined time interval 67. This time interval 67 serves to preload all involved (mechanical) components, including the transport element 103. From time t0 and especially after the time interval 103 has elapsed, characteristic parameters 65 are periodically derived from measured values ​​of measurement 89 in a parameter determination 90.The characteristic values ​​65, and here also the measured values ​​themselves, are forwarded to the control algorithm 88. The control algorithm 88 forwards the data, and in step 91, a manipulated variable is calculated. To calculate the manipulated variable, in this case the current value, additional data from the control algorithm 87 is used, to which the measured values ​​are also forwarded. Finally, the actuator is energized in step 92. The control loop then repeats, returning to step 88. There, the current measured values ​​are received. The actual value is compared with the setpoint, and adjustments are made if necessary. If it is determined in step 95 that the overload or explosion has ended, the end 93 of the control process is initiated via branch 95. The end 93 can lead directly back to the start 84 to detect further faults. Reference symbol list: 1 assembly 2 Damper device 3 Fastening device 4 Holding device 5 damper cylinders 6 Piston assembly 7 damper pistons 8 Piston rod 9 damper chambers 10 first chamber 11 Second Chamber 12 Damping fluid 13 Damping valve 14 Damping channel 16 electrical coil 16a Permanent magnet 21 Seating arrangement 21a Seating area 22 cavities (in 8) 25 wall 26 End 28 annular space 30 Axis of symmetry (of 5, 8) 32 Reset device 38 Pre-tensioning device 39 End caps 40 Idle state 41 Damping state 42 Shearing device 43 Preload spring 45 Guide bushing 46 Seal 47 Energy storage 48 Control unit 50 means of transport, vehicle 51 Bodywork 52 tires 60 mine protection seats 61 Sensor device 62 measured values 63 Overload case 64 Limit load 65 Key figure 66 predetermined measure 67 specified time period 68 sensor units 69 Overload limit 70 Current flow 71 maximum value 72 reduced value 73 Ramp 80 Load profile 81 maximum load 82 Plateau 83 decreasing load 84 Start 85 Explosion detection 86 Initialization 87 Control algorithm 88 Control algorithm 89 Measurement 90 Determination of characteristic values 91 Calculate manipulated variable 92 Power actuator 93 End 94 Indictment 95 Indication t0 time t1 Time t2 time t2a time t3 time 100 loading units 101 recording unit 102 Supporting institution 103 Transport organ 104 Item 105 people

Claims

[1] Method for damping loads acting on a loading unit (100) for transporting transport elements (103) in an overload case to protect against damage, wherein measured values ​​(62) about the current state of the loading unit (100) are recorded by a sensor device (61) and wherein at least one damping device (2) is controlled by the measured values ​​(62), characterized by , that a shearing device (42) is provided on the loading unit (100) which shears off when the load acting on the loading unit (100) exceeds a predetermined level (66), and that a control device (48) detects an overload case (63) from the recorded measured values ​​(62) when a shear sensor (67) detects shearing of the shear device (42), and that the damping of the damping device (2) is set to a predetermined high value at least immediately after the detection of the overload case (63), and the damping set to a high value is maintained for a predetermined time period (67) after the detection of an overload case (63), and the damping is reduced to a lower damping (71) after the predetermined time period (67) in order to initially increase the load on transport elements (103) transported on the loading unit (100) up to a predetermined limit load (64) and then reduce it after the predetermined time period (67). [2] Method according to claim 1, wherein the control device periodically derives characteristic parameters (65) for a load on the loading unit (100) from the measured values ​​(62). [3] Method according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the control device (48) detects an overload case (63) when a characteristic value exceeds a predetermined measure (66). [4] Method according to the preceding claim, wherein the damping is reduced to a lower damping (71) after the predetermined time interval (67) and is then increased again depending on the characteristic value (65). [5] Method according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the damping device (2) is initially damped to a maximum degree after detection of an overload case (63). [6] Method according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the damper device (2) is controlled after detection of an overload case (63) or after the expiry of the specified time period (67) depending on the currently derived characteristic value (65). [7] Method according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the damping of the damping device (2) is reduced when the characteristic value (65) reaches or exceeds a predetermined permissible limit load (64) for persons. [8] Method according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the permissible limit load (64) is specified for a standard person. [9] Method according to one of the preceding claims, wherein sensor values ​​of a sensor unit (68) arranged on a transport element (103) are taken into account. [10] Method according to one of the preceding claims, wherein a sensor means is coupled to the loading unit (100) to determine a weight of a transported transport element (103) and / or an acceleration of the loading unit (100). [11] Method according to one of the preceding claims, wherein a comfort function is integrated and smaller shocks below an overload limit (69) are dampened. [12] Method according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the damping device (2) has a damping valve (13) whose damping is controlled by the strength of an applied magnetic field. [13] Use of an assembly (1) with a loading unit (100) and a damping device (2) and a control device (48) and at least one sensor device (61) for carrying out a method according to one of the preceding claims.

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